WCED says court minimised seriousness of former Heathfield High principal’s misconduct

The Western Cape Education Department said that the court has minimised the seriousness of former Heathfield High principal Wesley Neumann’s misconduct in a ruling that reinstated him.

The department is appealing the High Court decision, which downgraded Neumann’s 2020 dismissal to a final written warning.

ALSO READ: WCED to appeal court judgement reinstating former Heathfield High principal

It argues that there are reasonable prospects for another court to reach a different outcome.

Education MEC David Maynier said the appeal suspends Neumann’s reinstatement for now.

“We argue that the court committed multiple legal and factual errors in reviewing the Education Labour Relations Council’s arbitration award. We will remain focused on the best interests of the learners at Heathfield High School. Any attempt to disrupt this progress or to interfere with teaching and learning will not be tolerated.”